Intra-extra oral shock-sensing and indicating systems and other shock-sensing and indicating systems

ABSTRACT

A mouth guard comprises a base member configured to fit inside the mouth of a user, and at least one shock-sensing and indicating device coupled to the base member. In one exemplary embodiment, the shock-sensing and indicating device is a passive shock-sensing and indicating device that detects a shock substantially along a selected axis with respect to the base member. In another exemplary embodiment, the at least one shock-sensing and indicating device detects a shock substantially along a plurality of selected axes with respect to the base member, each selected axis being substantially orthogonal from another selected axis. The shock-sensing and indicating devices can be configured to detect different levels of shock. In one exemplary embodiment, the shock-sensing and indicating device comprises a multi-component chemical-reaction system, such as a chemi-luminescent reaction system.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present patent application is a continuation patent application ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/038,726, entitled “Intra-Extra OralShock-Sensing And Indicating Systems And Other Shock-Sensing AndIndicating Systems,” invented by Don B. Hennig et al., and filed Mar. 2,2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,739,599 B2, issued Jun. 3, 2014, which is acontinuation-in-part patent application of and claims priority to U.S.Non-Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 12/831,860, entitled“Intra-Extra Oral Shock-Sensing And Indicating Systems And OtherShock-Sensing And Indicating Systems,” invented by Don B. Hennig et al.,filed Jul. 7, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,104,324, issued Jan. 31, 2012,and the present patent application is related to and claims priority toeach of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/412,062,entitled “Shock-Detecting Device,” invented by Don B. Hennig et al.,filed Nov. 10, 2010, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/382,881, entitled “Shock-Detecting Device,” invented by Don B. Henniget al., filed Sep. 14, 2010; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 61/380,480, entitled “Shock-Detecting Device,” invented by Jeffry L.VanElverdinghe et al., filed Sep. 7, 2010; U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/309,818, entitled “Intra-Extra Oral ShockSensing And Indicating System (IOSSIS),” invented by Don B. Hennig,filed Mar. 2, 2010; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/320,724, entitled “Intra-Extra Oral Shock Sensing And IndicatingSystem (IOSSIS),” invented by Don B. Hennig et al., filed Apr. 3, 2010.The disclosures of each are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Shock sensing technologies incorporated into helmets or headgear doesnot accurately reflect shock experienced by a wearer of the helmet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter disclosed herein is illustrated by way of example andnot by limitation in the accompanying figures in which like referencenumerals indicate similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a top view of one exemplary embodiment of a mouth-guarddevice according to the subject matter disclosed herein that, in use, ispositioned in the mouth of a user for sensing and recording shockexperienced by the user;

FIGS. 2A-2C respectively depict top, front and side views of anexemplary embodiment of a mouth-guard device that comprises threeshock-sensing and indicating devices that, in use, is positioned in themouth of a user for sensing and recording shock experienced by the user;

FIGS. 3A-3C respectively depict top, front and side view of an exemplaryembodiment of a mouth-guard device that comprises six shock-sensing andindicating devices that, in use, is positioned in the mouth of a userfor sensing and recording shock experienced by the user;

FIGS. 4A-4C respectively depict top, front and side view of an exemplaryembodiment of a mouth-guard device that comprises one shock-sensing andindicating device that, in use, is positioned in the mouth of a user forsensing and recording shock experienced by the user;

FIGS. 5A-5C respective depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising fourpassive-shock-sensing and indicating devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 6A-6C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 7A-7C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising onepassive-shock-sensing device, such as a passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicator, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 8A-8C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 9A-9C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device comprising onepassive-shock-sensing device, such as a passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicator;

FIGS. 10A-10C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators;

FIGS. 11A-11C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device comprising fourpassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators;

FIGS. 12A-12C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device comprising sixpassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators;

FIGS. 13A-13C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views ofan exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising threepassive-shock-sensing devices, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators;

FIGS. 14A-14C respectively depict front, side and end views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising twoshock-sensing devices attached in a well-known manner to a substratehaving an adhesive coating that is used for attaching shocking-sensingunit to the body of a user, or to a piece of equipment or clothing wornby the user.

FIG. 14D depicts the shock-sensing device depicted in FIGS. 14A-14Cbeing worn as an adhesive nasal strip by a user;

FIGS. 15A-15C respectively depict front, side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit comprising sixshock-sensing devices attached in a well-known manner to a substratehaving an adhesive coating that is used for attaching shocking-sensingunit to the body of a user, or to a piece of equipment or clothing wornby the user.

FIG. 15D depicts shock-sensing device depicted in FIGS. 15A-15C beingworn as an adhesive nasal strip by a user;

FIGS. 16A and 16B respectively depict front and side views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit configured to fit into theear of a user and comprising one shock-sensing device;

FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of theshock-sensing unit depicted in FIG. 16A taken along line A-A;

FIGS. 17A and 17B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of one exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device that comprises a two-component chemical reaction thatresults in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed by ashock-sensing and indicating device according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIGS. 18A and 18B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device that comprises a two-component chemical reaction thatresults in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIGS. 19A and 19B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device that comprises a two-component chemical reaction thatresults in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIGS. 20A and 20B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device that comprises a two-component chemical reaction thatresults in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 21 depicts the three basic components for an exemplary embodimentof a shock-sensing and indicating system according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 22 depicts another exemplary embodiment of a shock detecting systemaccording to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 23A and 23B respectively depict a front and a sectional view of anexemplary embodiment of a two-axis, omni-directional shock-detectiondevice according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 24 depicts a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of aone-axis, mono-directional shock-detecting device according to thesubject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 25 depicts a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of aone-axis, bi-directional shock-detecting device according to the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 26A and 26B respectively depict a front and a sectional view ofanother exemplary embodiment of a two-axis, omni-directionalshock-detection device according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 27 depicts an alternative exemplary non-limiting embodiment of ashock-sensing device adaptor that can be coupled to a mouth guard strapaccording to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 28A and 28B respectively depict front and side views of anexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device that can bemounted into a hole on a mouth guard according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 28C depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodimentcomprising a single post bottom according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 28D depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodimentcomprising two post bottoms according to the subject matter disclosedherein;

FIGS. 29A and 29B respectively depict front and side views of anotherexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device that can bemounted into a hole on a mouth guard according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 29C depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodimentcomprising two post bottoms according to the subject matter disclosedherein;

FIGS. 30A and 30B respectively depict front and side views of yetanother exemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device thatcan be mounted into a hole on a mouth guard according to the subjectmatter disclosed herein;

FIG. 30C depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodimentcomprising a single post bottom according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 30D depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodimentcomprising two post bottoms according to the subject matter disclosedherein;

FIGS. 31A-31C respectively depict front, side and bottom views of anexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device that can bemounted to the strap of a mouth guard according to the subject matterdisclosed herein;

FIG. 31D depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of astrap that has been modified to receive the exemplary device of FIGS.31A-31C according to the subject matter disclosed herein; and

FIG. 31E depicts a shock-sensing device mounted on the strap of a mouthguard according to the subject matter disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as“exemplary” is not to be construed as necessarily preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments. Additionally, it will beappreciated that for simplicity and/or clarity of illustration, elementsillustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. Forexample, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggeratedrelative to other elements for clarity. Further, in some figures onlyone or two of a plurality of similar components or items are indicatedby reference characters for clarity of the figure. Additionally, as usedherein, the term “spill-type-technology” shock-detecting devicegenerally refers to a shock-detecting device in which shock is sensed bya spillage of a component. Similarly, the term “crush-type-technology”shock-detecting device generally refers to a shock-detecting device inwhich shock is sensed by a component being crushed in some manner.

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to devices that comprisepassive (i.e., shock-sensing and indicating) and active (i.e.,shock-sensing or detecting and indicating/recording and/or transmittingto separate monitoring devices) shock-sensing and recording orindicating devices. As used herein, the term “shock” means a short-termhigh-level acceleration and/or deceleration condition. “Intra” or“extra” positioning of active sensing devices provides bettercorrelation to potential injury than conventional techniques or devices.Additionally, as used herein, the terms “shock-sensing device or unit”or “shock-sensing and indicating device or unit” means a passive and/oractive shock-sensing and indicating device. Alternatively forconvenience, as used herein, the terms “shock-sensing device or unit” or“shock-sensing and indicating device or unit” also means a passiveand/or active shock-sensing device with a separate correspondingindicating device.

One exemplary embodiment of a passive shock-sensing and indicatingdevice comprises a passive tube-type sensor/detector/indicator, such asa passive tube-type sensor/detector/indicator commonly known as aShockWatch® Impact Indicator manufactured by and available fromShockWatch of Dallas, Tex. Further, other passive and/or activeshock-sensing and indicating device could comprise non-poweredpiezoelectric shock-sensing and indicating devices, poweredpiezoelectric shock-sensing and indicating devices, poweredshock-sensing and indicating devices, powered shock-sensing andindicating devices with storage capability and/or RFID-typecommunication capabilities, and/or powered microaccelerometers. In someexemplary embodiments, both passive and active shock-sensing andindicating devices could be used together. In some exemplaryembodiments, one or more shock-sensing and indicating devices couldinclude a close-coupled electromagnetic communications capability. Insome exemplary embodiments, the shock-sensing device is separate from acorresponding shock-indicating device.

It should also be understood that the particular exemplary embodimentsand configurations of the subject matter disclosed herein, such asparticular number, types, orientations of shock-sensing and indicatingdevices and shock-sensing units, could be combined in ways notspecifically disclosed herein. That is, it should also be understoodthat the particular exemplary embodiments and configurations of thesubject matter discloses herein could be combined and/or used togetheralthough not specifically disclosed herein as being combined and/or usedtogether. It should be understood that in cases in which componentsforming the devices and the devices disclosed herein are referred to inthe singular, a plurality of such components could also be intended andmeant. Similarly, it should be understood that in cases in whichcomponents forming the devices and the devices disclosed herein arereferred to as a plurality, a singular component could also be intendedand meant.

In one exemplary embodiment, a mouth-guard device is configured as a“boil and bite” mouth guard used by, for example, an athlete thatparticipates in contact and/or collision sports, although such exemplaryconfigurations, users and/or uses are not limited by the disclosureherein. In some exemplary embodiments, the shock-sensing and indicatingdevices, or components, are mounted in conjunction with conventional“tooth guard” devices that provide intimate mechanical connection to thecranial structures. Intimate mechanical connection of a mouth-guarddevice to the cranial bone mass of a user is achieved by intra-oralpositioning and by dental and mandibular contact, thereby allowing theshock-sensing and indicating components of the subject matter disclosedherein to more accurately reflect potential shock-associated injuries(concussive brain injury and other) that could be caused by shocksexperienced by the user. In one exemplary embodiment, extra-oralpositioning of visually indicating passive and/or active shock-sensingand indicating components provides others, such as other players,referees, coaches, on-site medical personnel and/or parents, “real-timeevidence” that the user has experienced a potential injury-level shockwithout the mouth-guard device being removed from the user's mouth. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the mouth-guard device is removed from themouth of a user to view the shock-sensing and indicating components. Inyet another exemplary embodiment, the extra-oral positioning of visuallyindicating passive and/or active shock-sensing and indicating componentsprovide an indication of progressive levels of shock exposure and acorresponding probability of potential injury.

In one exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein, thepassive mechanical shock-sensing and indicating devices could be“replace-after-tripped” devices. In another exemplary embodiment, thepassive mechanical shock-sensing and indicating devices are re-settable.In still another exemplary embodiment, the passive shock-sensing andindicating devices are not re-settable or replaceable. In one exemplaryembodiment, the shock-sensing and indicating devices are oriented alongsubstantially orthogonal axes. In another exemplary embodiment, eachshock-sensing and indicating device of a pair of shock-sensing devicesis oriented in substantially opposite directions along a given axis. Instill another exemplary embodiment, one or more shock-sensing andindicating devices could be positioned at selected locations on and/orin a mouth guard with a selected location being dependent upon theparticular application for which the mouth guard is intended.

FIG. 1 depicts a top view of one exemplary embodiment of a mouth-guarddevice 100 that, in use, is positioned in the mouth of a user, orwearer, for sensing and recording shock experienced by the user.Mouth-guard device 100 comprises a base member 101 comprising agenerally arcuate shape or U-shape. Base member 101 comprises a firstbiting surface 102 and a second biting surface 103 that, in use, arepositioned between occlusal tooth surfaces (not shown) of a user's upperand lower teeth (not shown). Base member 101 also comprises an anteriorportion 104, a posterior portion 105, a labial-buccal side 106, and alingual side 107, and at least one flange 108 extending from either thelabial-buccal side 106 or the lingual side 108 of base member 101. Whenmouth-guard device 100 is inserted into the user's mouth, anteriorportion 104 is proximate to the opening of the user's mouth andposterior portion is proximate to the user's molars. The labial-buccalside 106 is proximate to a user's inner cheeks, while the lingual side107 is proximate to the user's tongue when mouth-guard device 100 isinserted into the user's mouth. Flanges 108 can extend in a superior(upper) and/or inferior (lower) direction and are respectively shaped toform a barrier between a user's upper and lower teeth (not shown) and auser's soft oral tissue (not shown).

A handle (or tongue) 110 is affixed to anterior portion 104 ofmouth-guard device 100. Handle 100 has a distal end 111 and a proximateend 112. In one exemplary embodiment, proximate end 112 of handle 110 isaffixed to the anterior portion 104 of mouth-guard device 100. Handle100 can be shaped and sized so that the distal end 111 extends out ofthe user's mouth. In one exemplary embodiment, a central planar axis(not shown) with which the handle 110 is aligned is substantiallyco-planar with a central planar axis (not shown) upon which base member101 is substantially aligned. In another exemplary embodiment, thecentral planar axis (not shown) of handle 110 is substantially notco-planar with respect to the central planar axis (not shown) of thebase member 101.

In one exemplary embodiment, at least one shock-sensing and indicatingdevice 120 is affixed to handle 110 in a well-known manner. The specificexemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 comprises three shock-sensingand indicating devices 120 a-120 c that are affixed to handle 110 in awell-known manner. In one exemplary embodiment, the shock-sensing andindicating devices of the mechanical system shown in FIG. 1 (and forother shock-sensing devices and/or shock-sensing and indicating devicesdisclosed herein) could be selected to indicate whether one or morespecific levels of shock have been experienced by the shock-sensing andindicating device. In another exemplary embodiment, the one or morespecific levels of shock detected by the shock-sensing and indicatingdevices is selected from a range of about 50 g of shock to about 100 gof shock. In still another exemplary embodiment, the one or morespecific levels of shock detected by the shock-sensing and indicatingdevices is/are selected from the range of about 50 g of shock to about250 g of shock. In still other exemplary embodiments, the shock leveldetected by a shock-sensing and indicating device could be greater thanabout 250 gs of shock. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the specificlevels of shock indication could be selected to be standard graduatedlevels, such as, about 50 g, about 75 g, and about 100 g. It should beunderstood that the shock-sensing and indicating devices of the subjectmatter disclosed herein could sense and indicate shock levels outsidethe range of about 50 g of shock to about 100 g of shock. In anotherexemplary embodiment, one or more selected levels of shock indicationcould be custom selected for a particular application. Additionally, itshould be understood that particular exemplary embodiments of themechanical system depicted in FIG. 1 and elsewhere herein could comprisemore or fewer shock-sensing and indicating devices than what is depictedin a given figure.

In one exemplary embodiment, mouth-guard device 100, as well as otherexemplary embodiments of mouth-guard devices disclosed herein, is madeof a thermoplastic that becomes moldable at a glass transitiontemperature that is greater than the temperature in the user's mouth. Inone exemplary embodiment, mouth-guard device 100 is made from athermoplastic having a glass transition temperature greater than about95 degrees Fahrenheit. In another exemplary embodiment, thethermoplastic becomes suitable for molding mouth-guard device 100 to auser's upper and lower teeth at a temperature less than about 180degrees Fahrenheit. A thermoplastic with a glass transition temperaturegreater than about 180 degrees Fahrenheit could be used to form themouth-guard device of the subject matter disclosed herein, provided thatthe mouth-guard device is fitted to dental models of a person's teethwhile the thermoplastic is in the moldable state and allowed to coolprior to use as a protective device. Exemplary thermoplastics suitablefor a mouth-guard device include, but are not limited to, ethylene vinylalcohol, ethylene vinyl acetate, urethane, styrene block copolymer,rubber, polystyrene, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, polyolefin,organopolysiloxane, alicyclic saturated hydrocarbon resin,polycaprolactone, polyethylene, unfilled polycarbonate, ester gum,polyethylenetetraphthalate, terpolymer, nylon, nylon copolymer,polyester, copolyester, or any combination of one or more thereof.

FIGS. 2A-2C depict an exemplary embodiment of a mouth-guard device 200that comprises three shock-sensing and indicating devices (orshock-detecting devices) 201 a-201 c that, in use, is positioned in themouth of a user for sensing and recording shock experienced by the user.In particular, FIG. 2A depicts a top view of the exemplary embodiment ofmouth-guard device 200. FIG. 2B depicts a front view of the exemplaryembodiment of mouth-guard device 200, and FIG. 2C depicts a side view ofthe exemplary embodiment of mouth-guard device 200. For the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, mouth-guard device 200 comprisesthree (3) shock-sensing and indicating devices 201 a-201 c that areattached to mouth-guard device 200, and respectively positioned andoriented along substantially orthogonal axes. It should be understoodthat mouth-guard device 200 is depicted using dashed lines because theexact configuration of mouth-guard device 200 could vary for theparticular application for mouth-guard device 200 is intended. It shouldalso be understood that shock-sensing and indicating devices 201 a-201 ccould be positioned internally to mouth-guard device 200, in which case,the material forming mouth-guard device 200 would be permit viewing ofshock-sensing and indicating devices 201 a-201 c, and/or could beattached to a surface of device 200 in a well-known manner. Furtherstill, it should be understood that the particular orientation of ashock-sensing and indicating device 201 along an axis could be in eitherdirection along the axis, and that each shock-sensing device 201 couldhave the same or substantially the same shock-level sensing capability,or could have a different selected shock-level sensing capability thananother shock-sensing and indicating device 201.

FIGS. 3A-3C depict an exemplary embodiment of a mouth-guard device 300that comprises six shock-sensing and indicating devices (orshock-detecting devices) 301 a-301 f that, in use, is positioned in themouth of a user for sensing and recording shock experienced by the user.In particular, FIG. 3A depicts a top view of the exemplary embodiment ofmouth-guard device 300. FIG. 3B depicts a front view of the exemplaryembodiment of mouth-guard device 300, and FIG. 3C depicts a side view ofthe exemplary embodiment of mouth-guard device 300. For the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A-3C, mouth-guard device 300 comprises six(6) shock-sensing devices 301 a-301 f that are attached to mouth-guarddevice 300, and respectively positioned and oriented along substantiallyorthogonal axes. More specifically, a pair of shock-sensing andindicating devices 301 is bi-directionally oriented along eachrespective substantially orthogonal axis. It should be understood thatmouth-guard device 300 is depicted using dashed lines because theparticular configuration of mouth-guard device 300 could vary for theparticular application for mouth-guard device 300 is intended. It shouldalso be understood that shock-sensing and indicating devices 301 a-301 fcould be positioned internally to mouth-guard device 300, in which case,the material forming device mouth-guard 300 would be permit viewing ofshock-sensing and indicating devices 301 a-301 c, and/or could beattached to a surface of mouth-guard device 300 in a well-known manner.Further still, it should be understood that the particular orientationof a shock-sensing device 301 along an axis could be in either directionalong the axis, and that each shock-sensing and indicating device 301could have the same or substantially the same shock-level sensingcapability, or could have a different selected shock-level sensingcapability than another shock-sensing and indicating device 301.

FIGS. 4A-4C depict an exemplary embodiment of a mouth-guard device 400that comprises one shock-sensing and indicating device (orshock-detecting device) 401 that, in use, is positioned in the mouth ofa user for sensing and recording shock experienced by the user. Inparticular, FIG. 4A depicts a top view of the exemplary embodiment ofmouth-guard device 400. FIG. 4B depicts a front view of the exemplaryembodiment of mouth-guard device 400, and FIG. 4C depicts a side view ofthe exemplary embodiment of mouth-guard device 400. For the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C, mouth-guard device 400 comprises oneshock-sensing device 401 that is attached to the mouth-guard device andpositioned and oriented along a selected axis. It should be understoodthat mouth-guard device 400 is depicted using dashed lines because theparticular configuration of mouth-guard device 400 could vary for theparticular application for mouth-guard device 400 is intended. It shouldalso be understood that shock-sensing device and indicating 401 could bepositioned internally to mouth-guard device 400, in which case, thematerial forming mouth-guard device 400 would be permit viewing ofshock-sensing and indicating device 401, or could be attached to asurface of mouth-guard device 400 in a well-known manner. Further still,it should be understood that the particular orientation of ashock-sensing and indicating device 401 along an axis could be in eitherdirection along the axis. Moreover, it should be understood that theparticular axis and orientation of shock-sensing device and indicating401 depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C is only exemplary and is not limiting.

FIGS. 5A-5C respective depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 500 comprising fourpassive-shock-sensing devices 501, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein. For the shock-sensing unit 500 depicted inFIGS. 5A-5C, shock-sensing devices 501 are encapsulated, such as byclear molded or a translucent plastic 502, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester, on a suitable substrate 503, such as a silicone, a pottingcompound or an epoxy. It should be understood that other suitablematerials could be used to for molded plastic 502 and for substrate 503.While shock-sensing unit 500 is depicted as comprising a disk shape, itshould be understood that other suitable shapes could be used.

FIGS. 6A-6C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 600 comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices 601, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein. For the shock-sensing unit 600 depicted inFIGS. 6A-6C, shock-sensing devices 601 are encapsulated, such as byclear or a translucent molded plastic 602, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester, on a suitable substrate 603, such as a silicone, a pottingcompound or an epoxy. It should be understood that other suitablematerials could be used for molded plastic 602 and for substrate 603.While shock-sensing unit 600 is depicted as comprising a disk shape, itshould be understood that other suitable shapes could be used.

FIGS. 7A-7C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 700 comprising onepassive-shock-sensing device 701, such as a passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicator, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein. For the shock-sensing unit 700 depicted inFIGS. 7A-7C, shock-sensing device 701 is encapsulated, such as by abubble of clear or a translucent plastic 702, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester, on a suitable substrate 703, such as a silicone, a pottingcompound or an epoxy. It should be understood that other suitablematerials could be used for molded plastic 702 and for substrate 703.While shock-sensing unit 700 is depicted as comprising a disk shape, itshould be understood that other suitable shapes could be used.

FIGS. 8A-8C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 800 comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices 801, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators, that are suitable for use with the subjectmatter disclosed herein. For the shock-sensing unit 800 depicted inFIGS. 8A-8C, shock-sensing device 801 is encapsulated, such as by abubble of clear or a translucent plastic 802, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester, on a suitable substrate 803, such as a silicone, a pottingcompound or an epoxy. It should be understood that other suitablematerials could be used for molded plastic 802 and for substrate 803.While shock-sensing unit 800 is depicted as comprising a disk shape, itshould be understood that other suitable shapes could be used.

One exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed hereincomprises one or more passive and/or active shock-sensing devices thatare integrally formed into a shock-sensing unit that could be attachedto the body of a user using, for example, an adhesive coating on asurface of the shock-sensing unit. In another exemplary embodiment, theshock-sensing unit could be attached to a piece of equipment, such as ahelmet, an eye-protection device, or clothing worn by a user.

FIGS. 9A-9C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device 900 comprising onepassive-shock-sensing device 901, such as a passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicator. As depicted, shock-sensing device 901 isattached to eye-protection device 900 at the bridge of eye-protectiondevice 900. While device 900 is referred to as an eye-protection device,it should be understood that device 900 is not so limited and could, inone exemplary embodiment, be a pair of corrective-lens glasses and inanother exemplary embodiment be a pair of sunglasses. It should also beunderstood that the orientation and/or position of shock-sensing device901 is only exemplary and could be different than that depicted in FIGS.9A-9C. Moreover, it should be understood that device 900 could beconfigured in one exemplary embodiment as a pair of goggles.

FIGS. 10A-10C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device 1000 comprising twopassive-shock-sensing devices 1001, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators. As depicted, shock-sensing device 1001 isattached to eye-protection device 1000 at the bridge of eye-protectiondevice 1000. While device 1000 is referred to as an eye-protectiondevice, it should be understood that device 1000 is not so limited andcould, in one exemplary embodiment, be a pair of corrective-lens glassesand in another exemplary embodiment be a pair of sunglasses. It shouldalso be understood that the orientation and/or position of shock-sensingdevices 1001 is only exemplary and could be different than that depictedin FIGS. 10A-10C. Moreover, it should be understood that device 1000could be configured in one exemplary embodiment as a pair of goggles.

FIGS. 11A-11C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device 1100 comprising fourpassive-shock-sensing devices 1101, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators. As depicted, shock-sensing devices 1101 areattached to eye-protection device 1100 at the bridge of eye-protectiondevice 1100 so that each shock-sensing device 1101 of a pair ofshock-sensing devices is oriented in different directions along aselected axis. While device 1100 is referred to as an eye-protectiondevice, it should be understood that device 1100 is not so limited andcould, in one exemplary embodiment, be a pair of corrective-lens glassesand in another exemplary embodiment be a pair of sunglasses. It shouldalso be understood that the orientation and/or position of pairs ofshock-sensing devices 1101 is only exemplary and could be different thanthat depicted in FIGS. 11A-11C. Moreover, it should be understood thatdevice 1100 could be configured in one exemplary embodiment as a pair ofgoggles.

FIGS. 12A-12C respectively depict top, front and left-side views of anexemplary embodiment of an eye-protection device 1200 comprising sixpassive-shock-sensing devices 1201, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators. As depicted, four shock-sensing devices 1201are attached to eye-protection device 1200 at the bridge ofeye-protection device 1200 and one on each ear piece of device 1200. Theparticular orientation of each shock-sensing device 1201 is selected sothat there is another shock-sensing device 1201 oriented in a directionthat opposite to shock-sensing device. While device 1200 is referred toas an eye-protection device, it should be understood that device 1200 isnot so limited and could, in one exemplary embodiment, be a pair ofcorrective-lens glasses and in another exemplary embodiment be a pair ofsunglasses. It should also be understood that the orientation and/orposition of pairs of shock-sensing devices 1201 is only exemplary andcould be different than that depicted in FIGS. 12A-12C. Moreover, itshould be understood that device 1200 could be configured in oneexemplary embodiment as a pair of goggles.

FIGS. 13A-13C respectively depict front, right-side and bottom views ofan exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 1300 comprising threepassive-shock-sensing devices 1301, such as passive-tube-typesensor/detector/indicators. For the shock-sensing unit 1300 depicted inFIGS. 13A-13C, shock-sensing devices 1301 are encapsulated, such as byclear or a translucent molded plastic 1302, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester, on a suitable substrate 1303, such as a silicone, a pottingcompound or an epoxy. It should be understood that other suitablematerials could be used for molded plastic 1302 and for substrate 1303.In one exemplary embodiment, shock-sensing devices 1301 could beselected to indicate whether one or more specific levels of shock,selected from a range of about 50 g of shock to about 100 g of shock,have been experienced by the shock-sensing device. In another exemplaryembodiment, the specific levels of shock indication could be selected tobe standard graduated levels, such as, about 50 g, about 75 g, and about100 g. In another exemplary embodiment, one or more selected levels ofshock indication could be custom selected for a particular application.It should be understood that shock-sensing devices 1301 couldsense/detect/indicate shock levels outside the range of about 50 g ofshock to about 100 g of shock. Additionally, it should be understoodthat another exemplary embodiment could comprise more or fewershock-sensing devices than what is depicted in FIGS. 13A-13C. Whileshock-sensing unit 1300 is depicted as comprising a disk shape, itshould be understood that other suitable shapes could be used.

One exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed hereincomprises one or more passive and/or active shock-sensing devices thatare attached to and/or integrally formed with an adhesive strip, similarto a nasal strip or an adhesive bandage, that could be worn by a user byaffixing the adhesive surface of the adhesive strip to the skin of theuser, such as, but not limited to, across the bridge of a nose, aforehead or a side of a face.

FIGS. 14A-14C respectively depict front, side and end views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 1400 comprising twoshock-sensing devices 1401 attached in a well-known manner to asubstrate 1402 having an adhesive coating that is used for attachingshocking-sensing unit 1400 to the body of a user, or to a piece ofequipment or clothing worn by the user. The particular exemplaryembodiment of shock-sensing device 1400 depicted in FIGS. 14A-14Ccomprises an adhesive nasal strip 1402. FIG. 14D depicts shock-sensingdevice 1400 being worn as an adhesive nasal strip by a user. It shouldalso be understood that the particular orientation of shock-sensingdevices 1401 is only exemplary and could be different than that depictedin FIGS. 14A-14C. Additionally, it should be understood that anotherexemplary embodiment could comprise more or fewer shock-sensing devicesthan what is depicted in FIGS. 14A-14C. While shock-sensing unit 1400 isdepicted as comprising an adhesive strip, it should be understood thatother suitable shapes could be used.

FIGS. 15A-15C respectively depict front, side and bottom views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit 1500 comprising sixshock-sensing devices 1501 attached in a well-known manner to asubstrate 1502 having an adhesive coating that is used for attachingshocking-sensing unit 1500 to the body of a user, or to a piece ofequipment or clothing worn by the user. The particular exemplaryembodiment of shock-sensing device 1500 depicted in FIGS. 15A-15Ccomprises an adhesive nasal strip 1502 so that, in use, the orientationof the pairs of shock-sensing devices 1501 provide bi-directionalshock-detecting capability along substantially orthogonal axis. FIG. 15Ddepicts shock-sensing device 1500 being worn as an adhesive nasal stripby a user. It should also be understood that the particular orientationof shock-sensing devices 1501 is only exemplary and could be differentthan that depicted in FIGS. 15A-15C. Additionally, it should beunderstood that another exemplary embodiment could comprise more orfewer shock-sensing devices than what is depicted in FIGS. 15A-15C.While shock-sensing unit 1500 is depicted as comprising a generallytriangularly shaped adhesive strip, it should be understood that othersuitable shapes could be used.

One exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed hereincomprises one or more passive and/or active shock-sensing devices thatare attached to and/or integrally formed with an ear-plug device couldbe worn by a user by placing the ear-plug device in the ear of the user.Still another exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosesherein comprises one or more passive and/or active shock-sensing devicesthat are configured in an ear-mounted device that does not occlude theear canal of the ear.

FIGS. 16A and 16B respectively depict front and side views of anexemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing unit configured to fit into theear of a user and comprising one shock-sensing device. FIG. 16C is across-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of the shock-sensingunit depicted in FIG. 16A taken along line A-A. The particular exemplaryembodiment of shock-sensing unit 1600 depicted in FIGS. 16A-16C can beworn in the ear canal of a user and can be formed from silicone. Itshould be understood that other suitable materials could be used to formshock-sensing unit. In another exemplary embodiment, two or moreshock-sensing devices could be used for shock-sensing unit 1600.

One exemplary embodiment of a passive shock-sensing and indicatingdevice according to the subject matter disclosed herein comprises atwo-component chemical reaction that results in a simple color change,chemi-luminescent output, or electro-chemical output when a shock of acertain level is sensed by the shock-sensing and indicating device. Forthis approach, one component (or compound) is held a reservoir-type tubethrough capillary, vacuum, and/or thixotropic properties. A firstcomponent (or compound) is released into an enclosure containing asecond component (or compound) that could be solid or liquid, andunrestrained, or a substrate or carrier that is impregnated, surfacecoated or bonded with the second component (or compound) that isinserted into the enclosure, or impregnated into a carrier capable ofbeing inserted into the enclosure. It should be understood that,although a two-component chemical reaction system is described, morethan two components, i.e., multiple components, could actually comprisethe chemical reaction system.

Two-component chemi-luminescent reactions that are suitable for use withthe subject matter disclosed herein include a luminol reaction and anoxalate reactions, which are also commonly used for light sticks andglow sticks. In one exemplary embodiment, a two-componentchemi-luminescent reaction is based onbis(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl-6-carbopentoxyphenyl)oxalate (CPPO) reactingwith hydrogen peroxide include fluorophors (FLR) that are the chemicalsthat provide the color for the chemi-luminescent reaction. In anotherexemplary embodiment, a two-component chemi-luminescent reaction isbased on bis(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)oxlate (TCPO) reacting with hydrogenperoxide: Exemplary fluorescent dyes that may be added to achemi-luminescent chemical reaction to release different colors of lightinclude, but are not limited to, Blue 9,10-diphenylanthracene; Green9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene, Yellow1-chloro-9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene, and Orange5,12-bis(phenylethynyl)-naphthacene. Red fluorophors, such as RhodamineB could also be used as a fluorescent dye, however, such red-emittingdyes are not typically used in an oxalate reaction because the redfluorophors are not stable when stored with the other chemicals that arepart of the chemi-luminescent reaction. Instead, in one exemplaryembodiment, a fluorescent red pigment could be molded into the plastictube that encases the chemi-luminescent components. The red-emittingpigment absorbs the light from, for example, a high-yield (bright)yellow reaction and re-emits the light as red, thereby resulting in anapparent red chemi-luminescent reaction that is approximately twice asbright as it would have been had the chemi-luminescent used a redfluorophor in the two-compound solution. It should be understood thatthe subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to a two-componentchemical reaction system, but could be a multi-component chemicalreaction system comprising, but not limited to, components disclosedherein as bring suitable.

FIGS. 17A and 17B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of one exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device 1700 that comprises a two-component chemical reactionthat results in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device 1700. Device 1700 comprises a mainbody 1701 and a reservoir/cap end 1702. Reservoir/cap end 1702 comprisesa hollow-stem reservoir portion 1703 that contains a first component1704. A wadding material 1705 impregnated with a second component 1706is inserted into a reservoir 1707 formed internally to main body 1701.Reservoir/cap end 1702 is press fit into main body 1701 in a well-knownmanner. Main body 1701, reservoir/cap end 1702 and reservoir portion1703 are formed from a clear or a translucent molded plastic, such aspolycarbonate or copolyester. It should be understood that othersuitable materials could be used to form main body 1701, reservoir/capend 1702 and reservoir portion 1703. Wadding material 1705 comprises anywettable, hydrophilic fibrous material. In an exemplary alternativeembodiment, the reservoir portion (portion 1703) could be formed as partof main body 1701. In yet another exemplary alternative embodiment, thereservoir portion could be a separate component that is, for example,press fit into either main body 1701 or cap end 1702. In yet anotherexemplary embodiment, the reservoir portion could comprise a pluralityof reservoir tubes or portions. Different g-detection levels can beobtained through selection of materials used for the differentcomponents (body, reservoir and chemical components) of shock-sensingand indicating device 1700, and through selection of design dimensionsand section contours of the main body and reservoir portions.

FIGS. 18A and 18B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device 1800 that comprises a two-component chemical reactionthat results in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device 1800. Device 1800 comprises a mainbody 1801 and a reservoir/cap end 1802. Reservoir/cap end 1802 comprisesa hollow-stem reservoir portion 1803 that contains a first component1804. A second component 1806 is inserted into a reservoir 1807 formedinternally to main body 1801. Reservoir/cap end 1802 is press fit intomain body 1801 in a well-known manner. Main body 1801, reservoir/cap end1802 and reservoir portion 1803 are formed from a clear or a translucentmolded plastic, such as polycarbonate or copolyester. It should beunderstood that other suitable materials could be used to form main body1801, reservoir/cap end 1802 and reservoir portion 1803. In an exemplaryalternative embodiment, the reservoir portion (portion 1803) could beformed as part of main body 1801. In yet another exemplary alternativeembodiment, the reservoir portion could be a separate component that is,for example, press fit into either main body 1801 or cap end 1802. Inyet another exemplary embodiment, the reservoir portion could comprise aplurality of reservoir tubes or portions. Different g-detection levelscan be obtained through selection of materials used for the differentcomponents (body, reservoir and chemical components) of shock-sensingand indicating device 1800, and through selection of design dimensionsand section contours of the main body and reservoir portions.

FIGS. 19A and 19B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device 1900 that comprises a two-component chemical reactionthat results in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device 1900. Device 1900 comprises a mainbody 1901 and a reservoir/cap end 1902. Reservoir/cap end 1902 comprisesa hollow-stem reservoir portion 1903 that contains a first component1904. A second liquid component 1906 is inserted into a reservoir 1907formed internally to main body 1901. Reservoir/cap end 1902 is press fitinto main body 1901 in a well-known manner. Main body 1901,reservoir/cap end 1902 and reservoir portion 1903 are formed from aclear or a translucent molded plastic, such as polycarbonate orcopolyester. It should be understood that other suitable materials couldbe used to form main body 1901, reservoir/cap end 1902 and reservoirportion 1903. In an alternative embodiment, the reservoir portion(portion 1903) could be formed as part of main body 1901. In yet anotherexemplary alternative embodiment, the reservoir portion could be aseparate component that is, for example, press fit into either main body1901 or cap end 1902. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the reservoirportion could comprise a plurality of reservoir tubes or portions.Different g-detection levels can be obtained through selection ofmaterials used for the different components (body, reservoir andchemical components) of shock-sensing and indicating device 1900, andthrough selection of design dimensions and section contours of the mainbody and reservoir portions.

FIGS. 20A and 20B respectively depict a cross-sectional view and anassembly view of another exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing andindicating device 2000 that comprises a two-component chemical reactionthat results in a simple color change, chemi-luminescent output, orelectro-chemical output when a shock of a certain level is sensed byshock-sensing and indicating device 2000. Device 2000 comprises a mainbody 2001 and a reservoir/cap end 2002. Reservoir/cap end 2002 comprisesa hollow-stem reservoir portion 2003 that contains a first component2004. A media material 2005 impregnated with a second component 2006 isinserted into a reservoir 2007 formed internally to main body 2001.Reservoir/cap end 2002 is press fit into main body 2001 in a well-knownmanner. Main body 2001, reservoir/cap end 2002 and reservoir portion2003 are formed from a clear or a translucent molded plastic, such aspolycarbonate or copolyester. It should be understood that othersuitable materials could be used to form main body 2001, reservoir/capend 2002 and reservoir portion 2003. In an alternative embodiment, thereservoir portion (portion 2003) could be formed as part of main body2001. In yet another exemplary alternative embodiment, the reservoirportion could be a separate component that is, for example, press fitinto either main body 2001 or cap end 2002. In yet another exemplaryembodiment, the reservoir portion could comprise a plurality ofreservoir tubes or portions. Different g-detection levels can beobtained through selection of materials used for the differentcomponents (body, reservoir and chemical components) of shock-sensingand indicating device 2000, and through selection of design dimensionsand section contours of the main body and reservoir portions.

One exemplary embodiment of a shock-sensing and indicating system thatis suitable for use with, but not limited to, any of the exemplaryembodiments disclosed herein includes three basic components. Otherexemplary applications include, but are not limited to, shock-sensingand indicating for human and/or animal users for sporting events,military and tactical operations, aeronautical, and test- andspace-flight operations, and industrial and vocational environmentshaving a potential of exposure to high g forces or events. FIG. 21depicts the three basic components for an exemplary embodiment of ashock-sensing and indicating system 2100. In particular, the three basiccomponents include a power source 2101, such as a battery, piezoelectricdevice, Seebeck effect device, photovoltaic device, or coil and slidingmagnet; a shock detector 2102, such as an accelerometer or strain gauge;and a shock-indicating device 2103, such as an indicating light, lightemitting diode, dye projecting thermal drop-on-demand (DOD) inkjet,piezoelectric DOD inkjet, or electroluminescent device. Power source2101 powers shock detector 2102. When shock detector 2102 senses a shockof a predetermined level, shock detector 2102 causes shock-indicatingdevice 2103 to indicate that a shock of the predetermined level has beensensed. In one exemplary embodiment, the components formingshock-sensing and indicating system 2100 are contained within a suitablecontaining device 2104.

Another exemplary embodiment provides that a shock detection system,such as shown as system 2200 in FIG. 22, is inserted in or incorporatedinto an article of sporting equipment or apparel. Shock detection system2100 comprises a power source/shock detector 2201, such as apiezoelectric device or a coil and sliding magnet, and a shock indicatordevice, 2202, such as an indicating light.

According to the subject matter disclosed herein, one or more activeshock-sensing devices could be used in place of or in conjunction withthe passive shock-sensing devices disclosed herein for the variousexemplary embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein. Suitableactive shock-sensing devices include powered devices and non-poweredshock-sensing devices.

One exemplary embodiment of an active shock-sensing device couldcomprise a non-powered piezoelectric sensor device configured to providea piezoelectric voltage in response to a sensed shock that is sensed andrecorded. In one exemplary embodiment, a piezoelectric sensor generatesan electric potential in response to a strain on the piezoelectricsensor device causes by a shock applied to the sensor. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the voltage potential generated by thepiezoelectric sensor device is used to trigger an electrochromicreaction that is visable and indicates that a shock greater than apredetermined magnitude has been experienced by the shock-sensingdevice. In another exemplary embodiment, the electric potentialgenerated by the piezoelectric sensor device is sensed and recorded by,for example, to setting of an electronic register. For this exemplaryembodiment, the shock-sensing device could be electronically scanned,such as by an RFID (RF Identification) device for determining whetherthe shock-sensing device has experienced a shock greater than apredetermined magnitude.

In another exemplary embodiment, such as a powered sensor having storagethat can be queried by, for example, and RFID scanner. For thisexemplary embodiment, the storage medium, such as an electronic registeris powered and an electric potential provided by a piezoelectric sensordevice when a shock is experienced is recorded in a well-known manner inthe storage medium, by an electrical circuit that could then be queriedusing well-known RFID techniques to determine whether the shock-sensingdevice experienced a shock of a predetermined magnitude. Other poweredshock-sensing devices could also be used, such as micro-accelerometers.

One exemplary embodiment comprises an active shock-sensing device thatprovides active continuous monitoring reporting of sensed shock bytransmitting, for example, using an RFID-type communication technique,to a locally positioned receiver device that displays when ashock-sensor device experiences a predetermined level of shock. Theshock-sensing and reporting capability could be continuous or could berecorded for later review. In one exemplary, the transmitterfunctionality provides sufficient range to transmit to a receiver thatmay be located, for example, on the sidelines of a football field.

Yet another exemplary embodiment comprises an Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit (ASIC) comprising microelectromechanical systems(MEMS) configured to sense, record and indicate shocks.

In one exemplary embodiment, energy for powering an active shock-sensingdevice comprises a Parametric Frequency Increased Generator (PFIGs),which is an energy-harvesting device that was developed by K. Najafi andT. Galchev at the University of Michigan Engineering Research Center forWireless Integrated Microsystems. Such PFIGs are known to be highlyefficient at providing renewable electrical power from arbitrary,non-periodic vibrations, such as the type of vibration that is abyproduct of humans when moving.

One exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed hereincomprises a shock-sensing unit comprising one or more passive and/oractive shock-sensing devices that are attached to the chin strap of ahelmet, such as a football helmet, the chin-strap cup of a chin strap ofa helmet, the chin strap connection to a chin-strap cup. Still anotherexemplary embodiment provides that a shock-sensing unit be attached to asuitable surface of a helmet, such as, but not limited to, a footballhelmet, lacrosse helmet, or a motorcycle helmet.

One exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed hereincomprises a shock-sensing and indicating device that is subcutaneouslyor subdural inserted into a user for sensing and detecting shocks forindicating whether a user has experienced a level of shock in cranialand/or thoracic and abdominal regions of the user. For example, thesubject matter disclosed herein is applicable for, but not limited to,shock-sensing and indicating for chest and cranial applications;applications in which high gs may be experienced by a user that arecaused by explosions or crashes; applications in which a user mayexperience high levers of acceleration and/or deceleration, therebyindicating in situations in which the user is unconscious and that theuser requires immediate critical medical attention.

FIGS. 23A and 23B respectively depict a front and a sectional view of anexemplary embodiment of a two-axis, omni-directional shock-detectiondevice 2300 according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Theshock-detecting device 2300 depicted in FIGS. 23A and 23B comprises anassembly/housing 2301, a weighted striker device 2302, and a pluralityof crushable reservoirs 2303, of which only one crushable reservoir isindicated in each of FIGS. 23A and 23B for clarity. Each crushablereservoir 2303 contains either a component A or a component B of atwo-component chemical reaction system. In one exemplary embodiment,assembly/housing 2301 is formed from a transparent and/or translucentmaterial, and contains weighted striker device 2302, the plurality ofreservoirs 2303, which surround weighted striker device 2302 along aninside wall 2301 a of assembly/housing 2301, and a component B, whichfills substantially all remaining available space in assembly/housing2301.

When shock-detecting device 2300 depicted in FIGS. 23A and 23B receivesa shock or impact (i.e., assembly/housing 2301 is acted upon by anoutside force), weighted striker device 2302 tends to stay in placeuntil the force is transmitted through crushable reservoirs 2303 withsufficient force to move weighted striker device 2302. If the force ishigh enough, one or more crushable reservoirs 2303 will not be able totransmit the force without damage to itself, i.e., is crushed, andcomponent A will be released into component B, thereby causing achemical reaction or a state change of component B that provides anindication of the level of shock, such as, but not limited to, a changein conductivity of component B, a color change of component B, and/or achemi-luminescent change of component B. In one exemplary embodiment,the indication provided by the mixing of components A and B is visiblethrough assembly/housing 2301. Suitable materials for components A and Bare described elsewhere herein. In another exemplary embodiment, achange in conductivity of component B can be detected and indicatedusing a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) device. In one exemplary embodiment,weighted striker device 2302 is textured to allow improved visibilityand/or visual indication of a detected shock.

FIG. 24 depicts a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of aone-axis mono-directional shock-detecting device 2400 according to thesubject matter disclosed herein. The exemplary embodiment ofshock-detecting device 2400 depicted in FIG. 24 comprises anassembly/housing 2401, a weighted striker device 2402, and one or morecrushable reservoirs 2403 that contain a component A, and a component Bof a two-component chemical reaction system. In one exemplaryembodiment, assembly/housing 2401 is formed from a transparent and/ortranslucent material, and contains weighted striker device 2402, theplurality of reservoirs 2403, which are positioned between weightedstriker device 2402 and an inside wall 2401 a of assembly/housing 2401,and the component B, which fills substantially all remaining availablespace in assembly/housing 2401. In another exemplary embodiment, eachreservoir 2403 contains either a component A or a component B. Crushablereservoirs 2403 are positioned within assembly housing 2401 along oneside of weighted striker device 2402 between weighted striker device2402 and an inside wall 2401 a.

When shock-detecting device 2400 depicted in FIG. 24 receives a shock orimpact (i.e., assembly/housing 2401 is acted upon by an outside force),weighted striker device 2402 tends to stay in place until the force istransmitted through crushable reservoirs 2403 with sufficient force tomove weighted striker device 2402. If the force is high enough, one ormore crushable reservoirs 2403 will not be able to transmit the forcewithout damage to itself, i.e., is crushed, and component A will bereleased into component B, thereby causing a chemical reaction or astate change of component B that provides an indication of the level ofshock, such as, but not limited to, a change in conductivity ofcomponent B, a color change of component B, and/or a chemi-luminescentchange of component B. In one exemplary embodiment, the indicationprovided by the mixing of components A and B is visible throughassembly/housing 2401. Suitable materials for components A and B aredescribed elsewhere herein. In another exemplary embodiment, a change inconductivity of component B can be detected and indicated using a RadioFrequency ID (RFID) device. In use, the one-axis mono-directionalshock-detecting device 2400 depicted in FIG. 24 can be oriented along anaxis that a shock is desired to be detected.

FIG. 25 depicts a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of aone-axis bi-directional shock-detecting device 2500 according to thesubject matter disclosed herein. The exemplary embodiment ofshock-detecting device 2500 depicted in FIG. 25 comprises anassembly/housing 2500, a weighted striker device 2502, and one or morecrushable reservoirs 2503 that contain a component A, and a component Bof a two-component chemical reaction system. In one exemplaryembodiment, assembly/housing 2501 is formed from a transparent and/ortranslucent material, and contains weighted striker device 2502, theplurality of reservoirs 2503, which are positioned on opposite sides ofweighted striker device 2502 between an inside wall 2501 a ofassembly/housing 2501 and striker device 2502. Component B fillssubstantially all remaining available space in assembly/housing 2501. Inanother exemplary embodiment, each reservoir 2503 contains either acomponent A or a component B. Crushable reservoirs 2503 are positionedwithin assembly/housing 2503 along opposite sides of weighted strikerdevice 2502. In one exemplary embodiment, crushable reservoirs 2503 arepositioned within assembly/housing 2501 with respect to weighted strikerdevice 2502 along axes in which shock is desired to be detected.

When the shock-detecting device 2500 depicted in FIG. 25 receives ashock or impact (i.e., assembly/housing is acted upon by an outsideforce), weighted striker device 2502 tends to stay in place until theforce is transmitted through crushable reservoirs 2503 with sufficientforce to move weighted striker device 2503. If the force is high enough,one or more crushable reservoirs 2503 will not be able to transmit theforce without damage to itself, i.e., is crushed, and component A willbe released into component B, thereby causing a chemical reaction or astate change of component B that provides an indication of the level ofshock, such as, but not limited to, a change in conductivity ofcomponent B, a color change of component B, and/or a chemi-luminescentchange of component B. In one exemplary embodiment, the indicationprovided by the mixing of components A and B is visible through theassembly/housing. Suitable materials for components A and B aredisclosed by, but are not limited to, U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/309,818, U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/320,724, and U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser.No. 12/831,860, the disclosures of which have been incorporated byreference herein. In another exemplary embodiment, a change inconductivity of component B can be detected and indicated using a RadioFrequency ID (RFID) device. FIGS. 26A and 26B respectively depict afront and a sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of atwo-axis, omni-directional shock-detection device 2600 according to thesubject matter disclosed herein. The shock-detecting device 2600depicted in FIGS. 26A and 26B comprises an assembly/housing 2601, anouter weighted striker device 2602, and a plurality of crushablereservoirs 2603 that contain a component A, a component B, a pluralityof crushable reservoirs 2604 that contain a component C, and an innerweighted striker device 2605. In another exemplary embodiment, eachreservoir 2603 and 2604 contains a component A, a component B or acomponent C of a multi-component chemical reaction system. In oneexemplary embodiment, the assembly/housing 2601 is formed from atransparent and/or translucent material, and contains weighted strikerdevices 2602 and 2605, the plurality of reservoirs 2603 and 2604, whichsurround weighted striker devices 2602 and 2605, and the component B,which fills substantially all remaining available space in theassembly/housing 2601. Outer weighted striker device 2602 is configuredto include an inner cavity or space 2606 that contains the plurality ofcrushable reservoirs 2604 that contain component C and inner weightedstriker device 2605. Assembly/housing 2601 is formed from a transparentand/or translucent material so that it is visible when theshock-detecting device senses a shock as described below.

In one exemplary embodiment, component A and component C are the sameand provide the same type of visual indication when shock-detectingdevice 2600 senses a shock. In another exemplary embodiment, component Aand component C are different, but both provide a different visualindication when the shock-detecting device 2600 senses a shock. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the crushable reservoirs that containcomponent A are similar to the crushable reservoirs that containcomponent C in that both reservoirs crush in response to substantiallythe same force. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the crushablereservoirs that contain component A are different to the crushablereservoirs that contain component C in that the respective reservoirscrush in response to substantially different forces. In still otherexemplary embodiments, the respective weights of the outer and innerweighted striker devices can be selected so that they can be the same orbe different.

When the shock-detecting device 2600 depicted in FIGS. 26A and 26Breceives a shock or impact (i.e., assembly/housing 2601 is acted upon byan outside force), outer weighted striker device 2602 tends to stay inplace until the force is transmitted through the crushable reservoirs2603 (containing component A) with sufficient force to move outerweighted striker device 2602. If the force is high enough, one or morecrushable reservoirs 2603 (containing component A) will not be able totransmit the force without damage to itself (i.e., being crushed), andcomponent A will be released into component B, thereby causing achemical reaction or a state change of component B that provides anindication of the level of shock, such as, but not limited to, a changein conductivity of component B, a color change of component B, and/or achemi-luminescent change of component B. Similarly, when outer weightedstriker device 2602 moves, inner weighted striker device 2605 tends tostay in place until the force is transmitted through the crushablereservoirs 2604 (containing component C) with sufficient force to moveinner weighted striker device 2605. If the force is high enough, one ormore crushable reservoirs 2604 (containing component C) will not be ableto transmit the force without damage to itself (i.e., is crushed), andcomponent C will be released into component B, thereby causing achemical reaction or a state change of component B that provides anindication of the level of shock, such as, but not limited to, a changein conductivity of component B, a color change of component B, and/or achemi-luminescent change of component B.

In one exemplary embodiment, the indication provided by the mixing ofcomponents A, B and C is visible through assembly/housing 2601. Suitablematerials for components A and B are described elsewhere herein. Inanother exemplary embodiment, a change in conductivity of component Bcan be detected and indicated using a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) device.

In another exemplary embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein,the exemplary embodiments of the shock-detecting device depicted inFIGS. 23-26 could comprise an assembly/housing, a weighted strikerdevice and a photonic crystal material having a physical structure orchemical solution that changes optical properties when exposed to aforce that destroys at least a portion of the lattice structure of thephotonic crystal material. The photonic crystal material has certainoptical properties that are based on the lattice structure of thematerial. The term “optical properties,” as used herein, may include oneor more wavelengths within the electromagnetic spectrum transmitted orreflected by the material (for example, a wavelength of 530 nmcorresponds to green light within the visible spectrum), a color profileacross the material, a color or absence of color, luminance, radiance,brightness, or any other visual property observable or measurable on thematerial. Additionally, the term “color profile,” as used herein, isintended to mean the range of particular colors exhibited by thematerial across its surface and the effect on the viewed color at thevarious regions of the material. The color profile may change as afunction of a viewing angle, described further below. Luminance may bedefined as an indicator of how bright the material appears and may bemeasured in candela per square meter (cd/m²). Further, radiance may bean indicator of how bright the material appears and may be measured inwatts per steradian per square meter (W/sr·m²). It is recognized thatany suitable visual or measurable technique may be used to determineoptical properties of the material.

Suitable photonic crystal materials may comprise, but are not limitedto, a polymer, such as a negative-tone photoresist polymer. In oneexemplary embodiment, Epon SU-8, a commercially available negative-tonephotoresist based on a multifunctional glycidyl ether derivative ofbisphenol-A novolac epoxy resin may be used. Other materials of interestmay include, but are not limited to, suitable materials in thecategories of thermoplastics, elastomers, and thermoelastomers, such aspolystyrene, methacrylates, acrylates, polyimide, polyurethane, epoxyand silicones chosen by one skilled in the art. It is understood thatany suitable polymer capable of being formed into a photonic crystalmaterial may be used. The use of the SU-8 photoresist ensures that thephotonic crystal material is thermochemically stable. Accordingly, thematerial may be durable even under extreme motion, moisture, andtemperature parameters, which often occur in combat situations.Specifically, exposed SU-8 resist is thermally stable (up to 300° C.)and chemically stable due to its aromatic functionality and highcross-link density. Additional details regarding suitable photoniccrystal materials are disclosed by U.S. Published Patent ApplicationSerial No. 2010/0073678 A1 to Smith et al., the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. The shock-detecting device of thisexemplary embodiment is configured similarly to, but not limited to, theexemplary embodiments of FIGS. 23-26 with the photonic crystal materialsurrounding the weighed striker device within the assembly/housing. Inone exemplary embodiment, the photonic crystal material is selectivelypositioned on one or more sides of the weighted striker device withinthe assembly/housing to detect a shock along one or more selected axes.

When the shock-detecting device of this exemplary embedment receives ashock or impact (i.e., assembly/housing is acted upon by an outsideforce), the weighted striker device tends to stay in place until theforce is transmitted through the photonic crystal material withsufficient force to move the weighted striker device. If the force ishigh enough, the photonic crystal material will not be able to transmitthe force without damage to it, i.e., will be crushed, and therebydestroying at least a portion of the lattice structure of the photoniccrystal material.

It should be understood that the shapes of the various objects depictedin FIGS. 23-26 are not limited to the shapes shown. Additionally, whilerelatively large crushable reservoirs are depicted, relatively smallercrushable reservoirs could alternatively be used. Further, while theexemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 23-26 generally detect a shockalong one or more planar axes, one or more exemplary embodiments of thesubject matter disclosed herein could comprise crushable reservoirsand/or a photonic crystal material that completely surrounds a weightedstriker device for omni-directional shock sensing (i.e., threedirections). Additionally, the weight of the weighted striker device canbe selected so that the shock-detecting device detects and indicates ashock at a particular level of shock. In one exemplary embodiment, aplurality of shock-detecting devices according to the subject matterdisclosed herein each having different selected weights for the weightedstriker device can be used together to detect and indicate a range ofshocks.

It should be understood that the two-weighted striker device concept canbe applied to the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 24 and 25.That is, two striker devices, each having selectably different weights,and two sets of crushable reservoirs could be used for detecting andindicating different levels of shock received by a shock-detectingdevice according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Moreover, itshould be understood that a shock-detecting device could be configuredto comprise more than two weighted striker devices and thereby detectand indicate a number of different levels of shock received by ashock-detecting device according to the subject matter disclosed herein.In one exemplary embodiment, a shock level received by a shock-detectingdevice according to the subject matter disclosed herein could comprise aweighted striker device having factory aligned pins, or contacts, thatis immersed in a viscous, non-conductive media. When the shock-detectingdevice receives a shock or impact (i.e., assembly/housing is acted uponby an outside force), the weighted striker device contained in thehousing/assembly tends to stay in place until the force is transmittedthrough the viscous media with sufficient force to deform or move thepins, or contact, on the weighted striker device, thereby making contactwith each other and forming an electrical circuit. In another exemplaryembodiment, factory aligned pins, or contacts, could be positioned onthe inside surface of the housing/assembly, in which case the detectingcircuit would be formed as part of the housing/assembly. In yet anotherexemplary embodiment, the pins, or terminals, could be selected so thatdifferent levels of force are needed to deform different pairs of pins,thereby sensing different levels of shock depending on the particularpins that have been deformed to complete an electrical circuit.

In another exemplary embodiment, a shock-detecting device comprises ahousing/assembly containing a cavity comprising a viscous medium inwhich a plurality of pin-like elements is suspended in the viscousmedium. The pin-like elements are configured to have one end that isheavier than the other end, such as by being a “ball” end. Whenassembled, the pin-like elements have a generally random arrangement wasthey are suspended in the viscous medium. The viscosity and the weightsof the pin-like elements are selected so that when the shock-detectingdevice receives a shock, the “ball” ends of the pin-like elements tendto align, thereby indicating a level of shock received by theshock-detecting device. In another exemplary embodiment, the pin-likeelements, when assembled in the housing/assembly, are generally aligned.The viscosity and the weights of the pin-like elements are selected sothat when the shock-detecting device receives a shock, the “ball” endsof the pin-like elements tend to randomized, thereby indicating a visuallevel of shock received by the shock-detecting device. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the pin-like elements are conductive, whenassembled in the housing/assembly, are generally aligned so that thepin-like elements are collectively non-conductive. The viscosity and theweights of the pin-like elements are selected so that when theshock-detecting device receives a shock, the “ball” ends of the pin-likeelements tend to randomized so that the pin-like elements collectivelybecome more conductive, thereby indicating with the level of collectiveconductivity of the pin-like elements a level of shock received by theshock-detecting device.

FIG. 27 depicts an alternative exemplary non-limiting embodiment of ashock-sensing device adaptor 2700 that can be coupled to a mouth guardstrap according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Moreparticularly, the exemplary shock-sensing device adaptor 2700 depictedin FIG. 27 is capable of being coupled to a strap (not shown) of a mouthguard that attaches the mouth guard to, for example, the facemask of afootball helmet. In FIG. 27, shock-sensing device adaptor 2700 comprisesan aperture 2701 that receives the mouth-guard strap the mouth guard.Any of the exemplary embodiments of a shock-detecting device disclosedherein is received by an aperture 2702. Each aperture 2702 is configuredto receive the specific embodiment of the shock-detecting device. In oneexemplary embodiment, the shock-detecting devices are replaceable. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the shock-detecting devices are notreplaceable because apertures 2702 are sealed after the shock-detectingdevices are inserted. FIGS. 28-31 depict alternative exemplaryembodiments of a shock-sensing device that can be mounted into a straphole of a mouth guard according to the subject matter disclosed herein.FIGS. 28A and 28B respectively depict front and side views of anexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device 2800 thatcan be mounted into a hole on a mouth guard. The hole could be anexisting hole on an existing mouth guard, such as a strap hole, or couldbe a hole that is specially fabricated for the subject matter disclosedherein. FIG. 28C depicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplaryembodiment 2800 comprising a single post bottom 2801. FIG. 28D depicts aside view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment comprising two postbottoms 2801. While the shock-sensing elements depicted in FIGS. 28A-28Drepresent spill-type-technology shock-sensing devices, the shock-sensingelements could alternatively be any of the different shock-sensingelements and/or devices disclosed herein.

FIGS. 29A and 29B respectively depict front and side views of anotherexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device 2900 thatcan be mounted into a hole on a mouth guard. The hole could be anexisting hole on an existing mouth guard, such as a strap hole, or couldbe a hole that is specially fabricated for the subject matter disclosedherein. FIG. 29B, in particular, depicts a side view of a non-limitingexemplary embodiment 2900 comprising a single post bottom 2901. FIG. 29Cdepicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment comprisingtwo post bottoms 2901. While the shock-sensing elements depicted inFIGS. 29A-29C represent crush-type-technology shock-sensing devices, theshock-sensing elements could alternatively be any of the differentshock-sensing elements and/or devices disclosed herein.

FIGS. 30A and 30B respectively depict front and side views of yetanother exemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device 3000that can be mounted into a hole on a mouth guard. The hole could be anexisting hole on an existing mouth guard, such as a strap hole, or couldbe a hole that is specially fabricated for the subject matter disclosedherein. FIG. 30C, in particular, depicts a side view of a non-limitingexemplary embodiment 3000 comprising a single post bottom 3001. FIG. 30Ddepicts a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment 3000comprising two post bottoms 3001. While the shock-sensing elementsdepicted in FIGS. 30A-30D represent crush-type-technology shock-sensingdevices, the shock-sensing elements could alternatively be any of thedifferent shock-sensing elements and/or devices disclosed herein.

FIGS. 31A-31C respectively depict front, side and bottom views of anexemplary non-limiting embodiment of a shock-sensing device 3100 thatcan be mounted to the strap of a mouth guard. FIG. 31D depicts a sideview of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a strap 3110 that hasbeen modified to receive the exemplary device of FIGS. 31A-31C. FIG. 31Edepicts a shock-sensing device mounted on the strap of a mouth guard.While the shock-sensing elements depicted in FIGS. 31A-31C representspill-type-technology shock-sensing devices, the shock-sensing elementscould alternatively be any of the different shock-sensing elementsand/or devices disclosed herein.

Although the foregoing disclosed subject matter has been described insome detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will beapparent that certain changes and modifications may be practiced thatare within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the presentembodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive,and the subject matter disclosed herein is not to be limited to thedetails given herein, but may be modified within the scope andequivalents of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mouth guard, comprising: a base memberconfigured to fit inside a mouth of a user; at least one shock-sensingdevice directly attached to the base member, the at least oneshock-sensing device to detect a level of shock applied to the basemember that exceeds a predetermined level of shock; and an indicatingdevice directly attached to the base member and coupled to the at oneshock-sensing device to indicate that the shock-sensing device hasdetected a level of shock that has been applied to the base member thatexceeds the predetermined level of shock, the indicating devicecomprising a light or a light emitting diode.
 2. The mouth guardaccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one shock-sensing andindicating device detects a shock substantially along a selected axiswith respect to the base member.
 3. The mouth guard according to claim1, wherein the at least one shock-sensing and indicating device detectsa shock substantially along a plurality of selected axes with respect tothe base member, each selected axis being substantially orthogonal fromanother selected axis.
 4. The mouth guard according to claim 1, whereinthe at least one shock-sensing device comprises at least oneaccelerometer to detect a level of shock applied to the base member thatexceeds a predetermined shock level.